MONTGOMERY, Ala. (WDNews) — Alabama drivers are being asked to slow down and remain patient as farmers move equipment and crops along rural roads this fall.
According to the Alabama Farmers Federation, harvest season means drivers are more likely to encounter tractors, combines and other slow-moving farm equipment.
“Farmers have spent months growing corn, cotton, peanuts and soybeans,” Federation President Jimmy Parnell said. “Now, it’s time to get those crops out of the field and into the hands of people who depend on them. Farmers are providing for the folks they share the road with. Those drivers have places they need to get to safely, and their farmer friends do, too.”
Parnell said farmers try to avoid busy travel times and pull over when it is safe. However, farm equipment often travels between 15 and 25 mph, making some traffic delays unavoidable.
“We know our neighbors are in a hurry to get to school, work or other appointments,” Parnell said. “Saving a few minutes is not worth endangering yourself, the farmer or other drivers by passing on a solid yellow line, swerving around a tractor or approaching slow-moving vehicles at high speed.”
A car traveling 55 mph can close a football-field-length gap behind a tractor moving 15 mph in just five seconds.
Drivers are encouraged to:
Slow down when approaching farm equipment.
Watch for orange slow-moving vehicle triangles.
Look for electronic and hand turn signals.
Allow extra room for equipment making wide turns.
Pass only when it is safe and legal.
Keep all tires on the paved roadway.
Watch for flashing amber lights and reflective tape.
Remember that farm equipment operators have the right to use public roads.
The safety reminder comes during National Farm Safety and Health Week, observed Sept. 21-25.
